4 Signs it’s Time to Toss Old Shoes
As we approach the end of the year, the phrase, “out with old, in with the new,” is frequently heard, and we at Pasco-Hernando Foot & Ankle think that also applies to footwear. Now is an excellent time to evaluate your shoe wardrobe and get rid of shoes that may no longer be supporting your feet properly. Below are four signs that it’s time for a pair of shoes to go.
1. You’ve been wearing them for years. Notice we didn’t say you’ve had them for years. Shoe condition is a function of how often they are worn. A classic pair of pumps that you only wear occasionally may find a home in your closet much longer than a pair of sneakers you use daily. The typical lifespan of a pair of shoes is 300-500 miles. After that, even if the shoes appear fine, they likely have interior components that have deteriorated.
2. The stitching has come loose, or there are holes in the shoes. In addition to being an obvious sign of wear, stitching that has come undone on the inside or outside of your shoe can cause blisters. It is particularly problematic if you have diabetes as it can lead to a wound on your foot. Holes in shoes can also cause you to trip. Discard these immediately.
3. Your heel slips out the back of the shoe. Shoes, particularly those made of leather, can stretch over time, and if your heel comes out as you walk, it’s a sign that your shoes no longer fit properly. Even though they may still feel comfortable, when a shoe doesn’t firmly hold your heel in place, it can lead to an ankle-twisting injury or, worse, a fall.
4. You notice that your feet hurt more when exercising or walking than they did previously. Same shoes, same workout, with more pain points to a shoe breakdown. Try replacing your athletic or walking shoes and resuming your routine. If you’re still experiencing foot pain, contact our Hudson office by calling 727-868-2128 or 352-683-5799 to schedule an appointment with our podiatrist, Dr. Lawrence J. Kales, to determine if an injury or other podiatric problem is the source of your discomfort.